Pregnancy hormones can affect a woman’s physical health in many ways, but many women are unaware of their impact on their dental health. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices and regularly visiting their dentist is as important for the baby’s dental health as it is for the mother.
Hormones and Gums
When you are pregnant, your body increases its production of hormones especially Progesterone. This jump increases blood flow to the tissues of the body, including the gums. This causes inflammation in the gums. When this happens, you develop a condition called pregnancy gingivitis. Symptoms may include swollen, red, sensitive gums that bleed easily and unpleasant odours in the mouth. Pyogenic granulomas can be found in 5% of women that are pregnant. The increase of Progesterone and Estrogen can increase the chance of getting these tumor like lesions. They are usually found in between the two front teeth on the top arch.
Morning Sickness
A majority of women have experienced morning sickness during their first trimester of pregnancy. What does morning sickness have to do with dental health? Morning sickness can expose the expectant mother's teeth to acid which can lead to decay.
Luckily, you can reduce these risks and maintain a healthy smile throughout your pregnancy with the following tips:
Rinse Well:
The acidic environment of your mouth after vomiting leads to enamel erosion. This erosion can cause yellowing of the teeth exposing the dentin layer, increase sensitivity, and give cavity-causing bacteria an easy entry point. By Rinsing your mouth after a morning sickness can reduce the acidity and decrease the risk of decay or erosion.
Brush after 30 mins:
If you brush immediately after vomiting, the scrubbing action of the bristles may damage the already acid-eroded enamel. The enamel is at it's weakest form after vomiting.
Choose Food Wisely:
Toast and cracker are foods that can help to quiet the effects of morning sickness. These foods, along with sugar-packed ginger ale or other sodas, can increase the likelihood of developing dental decay. If these foods or beverages help your morning sickness, continue eating/drinking them. Choose the lowest-carb or sugar free versions to reduce the plaque and caries formation. After eating or drinking, rinse your mouth with fresh water.Regular dental care is part of a healthy pregnancy routine. Do you need a new dentist or to schedule a check-up? Contact your dentist at Lux Dental for more information.
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